Mitch Horowitz presents a meticulously researched, compulsively readable history of the mystical and spiritual experience in our country. Focusing on the impact that the 19-century movements of Freemasonry, Spiritualism, and transcendentalism have had on America, Horowitz portrays a colorful cast of characters as he explains the origins of the Ouija board, the political influence of Spiritualism on the Senate, and the source of the mysterious slogan on the back of the dollar bill.

The Secret History of the World: As Laid Down by the Secret Societies

In this groundbreaking new work, Mark Booth embarks on an enthralling intellectual tour of our world's secret histories. Starting from a dangerous premise - that everything we've been taught about our world's past is corrupted, and that the stories put forward by the various cults and mystery schools throughout history are true - Booth produces nothing short of an alternate history of the past 3,000 years.

Hidden Wisdom: A Guide to Western Inner Traditions

The co-editors of Gnosis magazine explore the many esoteric traditions that Western culture has to offer. While terms from Eastern spiritual practices such as Zen, mantra, and karma have become part of our daily lexicon, the traditions of Western spirituality have been largely unexplored by people searching for non-mainstream routes to spiritual experience. But for those who identify with Western culture, Western religious traditions have their own wisdom teachings that are more suitable to their needs and expectations.

One Simple Idea: How Positive Thinking Reshaped Modern Life

From the millions-strong audiences of Oprah and The Secret to the mass-media ministries of evangelical figures like Joel Osteen and T. D. Jakes, to the motivational bestsellers and New Age seminars to the twelve-step programs and support groups of the recovery movement and to the rise of positive psychology and stress-reduction therapies, this idea - to think positively - is metaphysics morphed into mass belief. This is the biography of that belief.

Wicca for Beginners: A Simple Guide to Witchcraft, Magic, Rituals and Wiccan Beliefs

Wicca is a term that is preferred since it is a neopagan form of witchcraft. Wiccans believe in the universal elements of air, fire, water, spirit, and earth. These are elements that make up the Wiccan symbol of the pentacle.

Keepers of the Garden

A young man wanting to explore past-life regression discovers this is his first lifetime on Earth. All his other existences were on alien worlds and in other dimensions. As this unique case is explored further, he finds out that his association with extraterrestrials did not cease with these other lives. The interaction with UFOs and aliens has continued during all his present life, although the information was protectively hidden by his subconscious.

The Esoteric and the Exoteric: Science and the Occult

Join the world renowned expert, Adrian Gilbert (a best-selling author of numerous books on the subject), as he explores the world of the esoteric and exoteric and leads us through the complexities of the mystery traditions and their role in the history of the world of modern science.

Inner Christianity: A Guide to the Esoteric Tradition

Definitively read by author Richard Smoley, this audio version of Inner Christianity brings a clear understanding to the listener of the complex universe of esoteric knowledge. Topics include esoteric orders past and present, inner traditions, Sophia and Mary, and Gnosticism, as well as well as the mystical body of Christ.

Kabbalah, Science, and the Meaning of Life: Because Your Life Has Meaning

Kabbalah, Science, and the Meaning of Life traces the milestones of the evolution of science with which we are familiar, such as Newton's and Einstein's theories, but goes further to present the science of Kabbalah as the basis for understanding the hidden parts of reality that scientists are now discovering. While other sciences research the definable world around us, Kabbalah teaches us how the spontaneous changes occurring within us affect our surrounding reality.

The Nephilim and the Pyramid of the Apocalypse

This is the first in-depth book to shed light on a mysterious race known as the Nephilim and to provide evidence of who built the pyramids of Egypt and Mexico, as well as the other great monuments of ancient history. This is the first book to shed light on the dark forces which roamed the earth in those primeval times and will once again be at large during the coming Apocalypse, with the purpose of visiting mass destruction on an unsuspecting world.

The Lost Civilization Enigma: A New Inquiry into the Existence of Ancient Cities, Cultures, and Peoples Who Pre-Date Recorded History

Are history books giving us the whole story? Or is civilization far more complex and for older than we have been taught? Our school textbooks barely mention the 6,000-year-old Sumerian civilization, yet the latest archaeological findings at sites such as Jericho, and most recently, Gobekli Tepe in Turkey, have been dated to 10,000 BC. Civilization goes back at least another 10,000 years, if we are willing to believe what our ancestors themselves claimed.

Casting Sacred Space: The Core of All Magickal Work

A self-published sensation, this is a practical, accessible handbook for the beginner with cross-appeal to seasoned practitioners of many ritual traditions of magic including Wiccan, Neopagan, Druid, Tameran (Egyptian/Isis), and Western Mystery. Dominguez covers grounding, centering, symbols, timing, inner preparations, protection, meditations for maintaining sacred space, The Circle, The Quarters, energy work, and many other cross-practice connection including Qabala and chakras.

Full Guide to Becoming a Real Wizard, Witch or Necromancer

This is a first-of-its-kind step-by-step guide that will help you produce genuine results in magic and become an actual wizard, witch, or necromancer. This book will grant you an understanding of the many forgotten mysteries of the occult. Since the beginning of time, the command of the divine has served as a leading source of debate in the Bible, history, and the deep learnings of life.

A Field Guide to Demons, Vampires, Fallen Angels, and Other Subversive Spirits

Demons, fairies, and fallen angels are everywhere. They lurk at crossroads, crouch behind doors, hide in trees, slip into beds, wait in caves, hover at weddings and childbirths, disguise themselves as friends, relatives - even disguise themselves as you. They are powerful; they are protean; they are enchanting. And, to the uninformed, they are often invisible. This guide - the first of its kind - reveals the remarkable permutations of the demon and fairy species worldwide.

Serpents of Fire: German Secret Weapons, UFOs, and the Hitler/Hollow Earth Connection

Operating out of a secluded office deep in the hills of his home state of West Virginia, the prolific Barker single-handedly kept public interest focused on UFOs during it leanest years, and introduced many themes still discussed and investigated by today’s paranormal and conspiracy researchers:the “interdimensional” theory of UFOs; the shapeshifting nature of creature entities such as Mothman, the Flatwoods Monster, and Bigfoot; the cryptic terror of the Men in Black; and the mystery of the Philadelphia Experiment.

Application of Impossible Things: A Near-Death Experience in Iraq

This is an amazing true story of a female civilian employee of the Army Corps of Engineers in Basrah and Nasiriyah, Iraq. She was riding in a truck with men when a roadside bomb destroyed the vehicle. Her body was so severely damaged that there was no possible way she could live. She vividly recounts her near-death experience when she went out of her body, to the spirit world.

Demonology: An Overview

Demonology presents information from ancient sacred texts about the most significant demons and the manner in which to combat their various forms of attack. If you want to protect yourself from the infernal spirits, demonology will give you a framework from which to begin.

The Rise and Fall of the Nephilim: The Untold Story of Fallen Angels, Giants on the Earth, and Their Extraterrestrial Origins

The ancient books of Genesis and Enoch tell us that sprit beings known as the Watchers descended to the Earth, had sex with women, and begat a hybrid race of offspring known as the Nephilim. Such tales are as old as humanity itself. These histories and accounts of visitations and subsequent mixed-blood, alien-human races comprise the bulk of the world's myths, legends, religions, and superstitions.

Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft

Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft has influenced and guided countless students, coven initiates, and solitaries around the world. One of modern Wicca's most recommended books, this comprehensive text features a step-by-step course in Witchcraft, with information on rituals, beliefs, history, and lore, as well as instruction in spellwork, divination, herbalism, healing, channeling, dreamwork, sabbats, esbats, covens, and solitary practice. Exam questions are included as part of each lesson, so you can build a permanent record of your spiritual and magical training.

Publisher's Summary

Americans have long had a fascination with the occult. Now, well-known writer and expert on the occult Mitch Horowitz presents a meticulously researched, compulsively readable history of the mystical and spiritual experience in our country.

Focusing on the impact that the 19th-century movements of Freemasonry, Spiritualism, and transcendentalism have had on America, Horowitz portrays a colorful cast of characters as he explains the origins of the Ouija board, the political influence of Spiritualism on the Senate, and the source of the mysterious slogan on the back of the dollar bill.

What the Critics Say

"What a fascinating book. So it happens that another equally compelling take on our complicated national narrative lies just beneath the surface of things, not the grand procession of presidents, generals, and wars but something more hidden, more mysterious, but often no less revealing." (Ken Burns, award-winning documentary filmmaker)

Those serious about understanding America and Americans will find Occult America a fascinating and indispensable addition to their libraries. This book fills in some puzzling blanks in the nation's history as it is usually told, exploring the realities and personalities behind the Burned-Over District, Mesmerism, the importation of Eastern philosophy, and even the Ouija Board. Horowitz argues convincingly that spiritualism and mysticism never served as mere sideshows as American society developed, but rather they shaped profoundly the way we think today.
The book will perhaps find its most appreciative audience among readers who, like me, are "not typically given to occult enthusiasms" (as the author describes one mid-20th century writer), yet hope to understand the origins of the New Age philosophies that now run through so much of American thinking. Listening to Occult America, I was repeatedly impressed at Horowitz's ability to recount the course and effects of spiritualism in America without falling into either of the side-by-side traps of open-minded credulity or of snooty dismissiveness. The writing is lively and witty, and Paul Michael Garcia's narration matches the style and the subject well.

I would recommend this to friends because it summarizes the roots of the occult in America.

What did you like best about this story?

I saw the roots of what is now the occult. I also learned details that I had not know before.

Any additional comments?

I was curious to hear about the darker side of the occult as I know its out there and most likely related to what was discuss. I know there is a whole practice related to Aliester Crowley, which is only mentioned in passing in this book several times. There are other occult practices that have large followings as well that were not discussed and, again, most likely come out of what was discussed.

I found this book very helpful in piecing many things together. It is amazing to see how the occult has played a role in the lives of many leaders of America and Europe. But, I was disappointed when the author did not address some major elements of the self-help programs that find their roots in the occult. Here I am specifically thinking of the AA 12-Step programs that were initiated with Bill Wilson. He started under the Oxford Group Movement which later changed its name to Moral Rearmament. They incorporated occult ideas. It is also well known that Bill Wilson attended many seances and perhaps even wrote the 12-Steps under the influence of praeternatural beings in sessions of automatic writing. Also, I was waiting to hear about the various groups that influence Hollywood and other figures that shape our country through the media. What about Charles Manson and the Process? What about Charles Manson and Scientology? What about the occult and the use of drugs like LSD? These things have greatly influenced us...as the book "Turn Off Your Mind" by Gary Lachman explains. Still, I would recommend this book even though it is deficient in providing a more complete picture.

Where does Occult America rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Since books on occultism are very rare in audiobook form, it is difficult to find good ones. The chapters in this book seemed like it might have been dull, but it was not. Even to someone well versed in occult history, there was a wealth of information explored very intimately here. A good achievement in esoteric literature.

What other book might you compare Occult America to and why?

Peter Levenda's "The Secret Temple" is very similar. It is also somewhat juicier and written from a more esoteric perspective. "Cults, Conspiracies, and Secret Societies" by Arthur Goldwag covers more material but is not quite as in-depth.

What does Paul Michael Garcia bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

He is sort of the ideal narrator because he reads in a way that is very matter-of-fact without too much inflection to influence the tone f the actual text.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

"Little known streams of occult philosophy and activity operating within infuential circles and movements in occult history."

Informative and well written. My grandmother told stories of and believed in the faith-healers, seances and spiritualism that were commonplace in her youth (US during the late 1800's and early 1900's). These were not "out there", but commonly held beliefs in the lower middle class of America during this time.

Would you consider the audio edition of Occult America to be better than the print version?

Given that I am on the go a lot, the audible version is highly convenient to listen to on not so short drives. It was a joy to listen to. Because of its convenience, I prefer listening to a book read, than reading it. It also spares my eyes from the stress of having to stare at a page, regardless of what one's speed of reading is.

What did you like best about this story?

Given the information is accurate, I like knowing more about America's history; the history not taught in conventional learning institutions.

Which character – as performed by Paul Michael Garcia – was your favorite?

It's hard to say; he's very good at all of them. But I would probably lean more towards the one with the southern drawl of the ex-slave. Fredrick Douglas? Maybe.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Interesting that I am asked this question; I am a TV Production major. I actually like the title of the book, "Occult America" and its sub-title as a film title. If done well, it would make for a great documentary.

Any additional comments?

This book among my other references, will certainly be used as a reference in the future, when necessary.

I was really looking forward to this book. I did learn that the occult was a much larger part of life in the United States than I thought it ever was.
The part I didn't like was that the author seemed to provide lists of people involved in the occult. What I would have been interested in is how the occult movements affected society.

Where does Occult America rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I can not say it is one of my favorites or top titles that impacted me. It was knowledge that I already had. Though the knowledge of different topics in this book was acquired at different times through different means, this book brought it all out, and tied it in nicely.

Great for people just starting to poke around, and asking "this cant be it, I need answers."

What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?

Read it, I am not answering this one.

What does Paul Michael Garcia bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Intense audio

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I was alert. If you guys want people to continue reviews, you should allow us to pick through drop down menu's topics you guys choose, and let us answer those... laughing and crying are to simple emotional states that some of us do not even subscribe to. Either be choice or reason.

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